Watch My New Year [English Subtitled]

My New Year is a heartwarming, family-centric drama set in modern-day Armenia. The movie follows the lives of an ordinary family as they prepare for and celebrate the New Year holiday. The story revolves around the patriarch of the family, Vrezh (Khoren Levonyan), a hardworking taxi driver who is struggling to make ends meet. With his wife, children, and his mother living with him in a small, cramped apartment, Vrezh is faced with financial difficulties, which put a strain on the family's relationships.

Despite the odds, Vrezh is determined to provide a happy new year for his family. The family starts with the preparations early, planning the holiday menu, decorating the Christmas Tree, and shopping for gifts. Along the way, they navigate their relationships, deal with personal and family issues, and learn to appreciate the small things in life.

The movie is a beautiful portrayal of the Armenian culture and customs, with several scenes that highlight the New Year traditions in Armenia. For example, the family visits the pagan temple of Garni, where they participate in traditional rituals, such as "mijakmarg" (water blessing) and "tsakhkazard" (fortune-telling). They also prepare the traditional "Armenian dolma" for the New Year feast and exchange gifts.

The film's director, Aram Shahbazyan, draws attention to the importance of family and the value of relationships. Each character has their own story to tell - Vrezh's mother, for instance, is a feisty, traditional lady who bickers with her daughter-in-law but has a heart of gold. The two children, Arman and Mane, are typical siblings who tease and annoy each other yet stick together when faced with a challenge. The other characters in the film also have their own subplots, which intertwine and add depth to the overall story.

The acting in the film is exceptional, with each actor delivering a stellar performance. Khoren Levonyan is the heart and soul of the film, portraying Vrezh with great empathy and depth. His character carries the film's themes of perseverance, determination and hope throughout the movie, giving an emotional performance. Hasmik Mkrtchyan, playing Vrezh's wife, delivers a grounded and genuine performance, perfectly contrasting Levonyan's enthusiasm and energy.

One of the film's most striking features is the cinematography. The beautiful Armenian landscapes, such as the monasteries and mountain ranges, are captured in breathtaking detail. The framing is also well executed, evoking a sense of intimacy and warmth.

Overall, My New Year is a charming, feel-good film that captures the importance of family, faith, and hope. It explores the cultural traditions of Armenia while remaining universal in its themes of family, love, and togetherness. The film's poignant themes, beautiful visuals and heartwarming performances make it a must-watch for anyone looking for a family-centric movie that will leave you with a smile on your face.